Depressive Symptoms Among Colorado Farmers

Abstract

Previous studies have reported farmers to be at higher risk of suicide compared to otherworkers. In order to determine possible correlates of suicide, a study including assessment ofdepressive symptoms was undertaken in Colorado. The purpose of this article is to describedepressive symptoms among a representative sample of Colorado farm operators and theirspouses. A stratified sample of farms in Colorado was selected for study. Detailedquestionnaires were administered by telephone interview assessing general health, farmcharacteristics, demographics, hazards, injuries, behavioral risk factors, safety knowledge,medical care and insurance, mental health using the Center for Epidemiologic StudiesDepression Scale, social support, and pesticide exposures. Logistic regression was used toevaluate factors associated with depressive symptoms in this population. A total of 485farms representing 872 individuals were enrolled in the study. A 9.3% overall prevalence ofdepressive symptoms was found in the group; 7.9% among males and 11.1% among females.Factors evaluated in relation to depressive symptoms were age, social support, negative lifechanges, general physical health, changes in income, and alcohol use. Based on backwardelimination, overall assessment of health, gender, social support, and negative life changeswere significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Overall prevalence of depressivesymptoms was lower in this population from that reported in the general population.Characteristics associated with depressive symptoms in other population studies were alsoassociated with depression in this group. Further work is needed to elucidate factors whichaffect the overall risk of suicide among farmers.